The operation was launched in May and consists of roadblocks, vehicle checkpoints, high-visibility patrols and the tracing of murder and rape suspects.

On Friday (21/7), provincial police commissioner Baile Motswenyane and Mangaung commissioner Arthur Adams inspected a parade made up of various police units who form part of Operation Shanela. Motswenyane called on the officers to act firmly and exercise good authority.

ALSO READ: Police Deputy Minister to lead Operation Shanela in Free State

According to Free State police spokesperson Thabo Covane, the parade kickstarted a number of high density deployments throughout the province as part of operation Shanela. He revealed that before going to the streets, Motsoenyane addressed the parade and stressed the importance of maintaining good corporate identity and image through proper dress code and further called on police officers to act firmly and excercise good authority.

“Commissioner Motswenyane reminded members that community safety and security is the organisation’s ultimate goal,” said Free State police spokesperson Thabo Covane. “Commissioner Adams also addressed members on anti-corruption strategy and warned that they should stay away from corruption and live within their means.”

Motswenyane and Adams also took part in a vehicle checkpoint in Paul Kruger Street, while senior officers visited activities in Bloemfontein central and Navalsig. Covane said Operation Shanela will continue in other areas throughout the weekend.

OFM News